New steps encourage healthy lifestyle among women

Saudi Arabia has recently allowed girls’ physical education and sports activities in private schools as part of an effort to reform its view on women and sports.
In addition, stadiums now have separate sections for women interested in attending football matches in the country. These steps have been taken to encourage a healthy lifestyle among women in the Kingdom.
According to public health experts, Saudi Arabia has one of the highest rates of inactivity in the world, contributing to rising rates of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
Dr. Raaniah Badwi, a medical registrar at King Saud Medical City, said, “This is a good move from the Ministry of Education to facilitate physical activity in schools. I think it will help improve the overall health and lifestyle of the female community.”
“It is about time that opportunities to be physically active are provided. Women here face particular cultural and social hurdles to exercise,” says Zina Mahayri, a legal assistant at a law firm.
She added that many private schools already have physical education programs, but that sports should be introduced in public girls’ schools and universities.
“The reforms are rightly undertaken,” said Nada Al-Shahri, an Arabic teacher at Bin Baaz Charitable Trust School for Girls in Riyadh.
“Our religion allows women to practice such activities,” she said, adding that the requirement that girls “dress modestly” and have appropriate equipment and facilities is an encouraging move for wider reforms targeting women.
Al-Shahri added that this opens doors for more female Saudi physical education instructors within schools and that whilst it is a gradual change, it will make a difference in the long run. Neha Mandhayan, a graphic designer, said, “This move is definitely welcomed. If the ministry has officially allowed physical activity in schools, it will be beneficial not only for girl students but it will be a relief for parents as well. Right now, I have to take my kids to different health clubs and activity centers for playing basketball and swimming to help them live a healthy life. Practicing sport within school premises would be of great help, as it will save us a lot of effort.”
Samina Mazher, a housewife, said, “It is difficult to be active inside the house. I have an Xbox for my daughter, which is a relatively good form of indoor exercise, but still, engaging in physical activity at school provides interactive and competitive learning grounds for children.”
The announcement about separate sections for women at stadiums is welcomed by some but a matter of concern for others.
According to a Saudi Press Agency report, cabins will be built at the Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal stadium in Jeddah, with nearly 15 percent of its 32,000 seats reserved for families. This will be followed by the King Abdullah City stadium in the capital in 2014.
“To watch the matches live in a stadium is definitely a better experience than watching them on electronic screens,” said Sarah, a business management student. “Women will surely enjoy watching football matches in a lively atmosphere where they are able to share their enthusiasm with family and friends,” she added.
Sameera Qutub, a biology teacher at a government school, said, “This is an encouraging move, but there are two issues. On the one hand, we are encouraging sports and fitness in schools, and on the other, allowing women into stadiums, which is a distant vision. I don’t believe our community is ready for such exposure. These things need time.”
Haula Al Shahri, a fitness enthusiast, said, “Saudi women have less opportunity to be physically active than men. Society should provide women with ample grounds to be active through culturally appropriate programs and facilities.”